решать vs решиться

reshat' vs reshit'sya — solve/decide vs dare or make up one’s mind

What it really means

Решать means solve a problem or decide something, often as a process and with a direct object. Решиться means finally bring oneself to do something; it normally takes на plus accusative or an infinitive.

The reflexive verb stresses overcoming hesitation, not merely reaching a decision.

Examples in natural speech

Мы решаем эту задачу вместе.
We are solving this problem together.
Она сама решает, куда ехать.
She decides herself where to go.
Нужно решить вопрос сегодня.
We need to settle the matter today.
Он не решился спросить.
He did not dare to ask.
Я наконец решилась на переезд.
I finally made up my mind to move.

Common mistakes

Do not say решитьcя вопрос for “solve the issue”: use решить вопрос. Решиться needs a person who gathers courage.

Memory tip

Решать works on a question; решиться works on your own hesitation.

Frequently asked questions

What follows решиться?

An infinitive or на plus accusative: решиться уйти, решиться на шаг.

Can решать mean decide?

Yes, especially deciding a practical matter.

Is решиться perfective?

Yes; it focuses on the moment of resolve.

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